Animal Lovers Worry About Putri, The Malaysian Elephant At Tashkent Zoo After Its Companion Died Years Ago

Malaysian authorities recently inspected the elephant’s well-being in Tashkent during a work trip.

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Wild animals like pandas and elephants are often used as conservation and goodwill ambassadors to connect people with nature, drive education, and rally support for endangered species. When done right, these ambassadors do more than raise awareness; they bridge cultures, strengthen diplomatic bonds, and inspire a shared commitment to protecting life on Earth.

However, there have always been concerns about the ethics of it all. While animal ambassadors can aid with conservation education and awareness, using them as public display can compromise their well-being. Subjecting these animals to long-distance travel and unfamiliar environments can take a toll on their physical and psychological health.

For example, netizens voiced worries about two elephants – Putra and Putri – that were sent to Tashkent Zoo around 2005.

On 18 October 2014, Uz Daily reported that Putra, the male elephant, died at the age of 13 at the zoo. An autopsy revealed that Putra died of a heart attack (myocardial infarction) caused by the hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis). Fatty deposits were found in the heart and major blood vessels.

Uz Daily added that Putri, a female elephant, initially refused to let zoo staff approach Putra to provide help.

As of April 2026, Putri is approximately 25 years old and is still at Tashkent Zoo. Since elephants are social creatures and need companionship, some people worry about Putri’s well-being.

Not too long ago, netizens voiced concerns about the three elephants – Kelat, Amoi, and Dara – that were sent to Tennoji Zoo in Osaka.

Authorities like Perhilitan and Taiping Zoo have assured the public that they have made the necessary checks and preparations to ensure the elephants will be well-cared for.

According to Tennoji Zoo’s blog, the three elephants were adapting and eating well. The trio loved eating bananas and apples, but disliked cabbage a lot. Kelat also developed a liking for Japanese carrots.

However, Kelat recently suffered a chipped tusk. Malaysian mahouts stepped in to help file and smooth the jagged edge, and fitted a metal ring to stabilise the crack.

Reports indicated that Kelat was unfazed, and that his tusk would heal naturally.

Visiting Putri

In December 2025, a Malaysian delegation from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) and Perhilitan visited the Tashkent Zoo and the Malaysian Embassy in Uzbekistan to strengthen conservation ties.

Instead of an animal swap, recent efforts focused on providing medical care for Putri. They also discussed the proposal to send elephants to the zoo and inspected the facilities during the work visit.